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Jeanette Long Whitehurst

July 14, 1938 - November 02, 2025

Text:

Jeanette Long Whitehurst

Jeanette Long Whitehurst, 87, passed away peacefully November 2, 2025 at the home of her daughter, Nora Bailey.

Jeanette was born in Longwood, North Carolina. She was the daughter of Herman and Dessie Long. She moved to Greenville at the age of 16 to attend East Carolina University. There she met her husband Norwood Whitehurst. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in education. Following college she taught school in New Bern NC and then later taught at ECU.

Jeanette was very talented and loved all types of crafts. Her favorite was making flower arrangements out of seashells. Her creations were featured in many magazines and newspapers.

Jeanette and Norwood built a cottage at Emerald Isle in 1967 and met other couples there who would become lifelong friends. They had many wonderful memories there.

Mrs. Whitehurst was preceded in death by her husband, Norwood P. Whitehurst, and parents Herman and Dessie Long.

She is survived by her daughter, Nora Whitehurst Bailey and husband Jeff of Raleigh, grandchildren Brian Bailey and Christina Bailey, brother William Long and wife Dusty of Hampstead NC, many nephews & nieces, and also best friend Nancy Tilley of Durham.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no service.

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Condolences

  • November 10, 2025

    Jennifer Thomas

    Jeanette was a great friend to my mom, Margaret Ramsdell. And she was like a second mother to me. I have so many memories of Jeanette. This morning I'm remembering how Jeanette made me a little log cabin doll house with handmade furniture so when you got your dollhouse at Christmas, I wouldn't feel left out. She was a smart, kind, loving person. ✝️ Jennifer R. Thomas

  • November 08, 2025

    Judy and Jerry Clark

    We are so blessed to have known Jeannette and Norwood through our church. They blessed our church in so many ways over the years through their love, faith, and kindness. May the many fond memories you have of Jennette bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time. Judy and Jerry Clark

  • November 06, 2025

    William Herman Long Jr.

    To myy wonderful sister of 80 years, there more to say good about you than possible in the time I have left on this earth. I love You Very Much. Your brother through eternity. William Herman Long Jr.

  • November 06, 2025

    Donna Tilley Haled

    Jeanette and Norwood were chosen family...those days at Emerald Isle will never be forgotten. Your mom taught me so much during our crafting days, mostly how to avoid the hot glue! Memories live on forever, love does too.

  • November 04, 2025

    Jewelle Jackson Boone

    I grew up knowing Mr. & Mrs. Whitehurst. I loved your mom and dad. They were in Sunday School at 8th Street Christian Church and First Christian Church with my parents, JB and Blanche Jackson. After your dad passed away your mom would stay at the beach a lot in the summer but would be back at church in September ready for CWF and all the other activities going on at First Christian Church. I can truly say how I loved your mom and I was a bad friend for not keeping up with her after she moved. Now she is with your dad and in peace with God. So sorry for your loss. Jewelle Jackson Boone

  • November 04, 2025

    William Long III

    Jeanette was one of my favorite human beings I've ever known. She was kind, intelligent and funny. I idolized her growing up because our parents spoke so highly of her, how she graduated high school at 16 and from ECU at 19 and of her artistic ability. She was one of a kind and I will miss her greatly. Her voice came to sound like our mother's as she aged and that always made me smile when we spoke in the phone. Jeanette, I loved you dearly and I will see you again some day. Say hello to Mama and Daddy for me.

  • November 03, 2025

    Earle Hines

    Amanda shared with me about your mom. My reflection of knowing her has flooded my memories. It all started at First Christian Church, Greenville. Her beautiful love of Christ was evident in all that she shared. She was a leader, a teacher, and a southern lady of many talents. I learned much in my younger years being in many church functions with her. She walked the walk of Christ and lead the way for many. My life is richer because of Jeanette Whitehurst! My condolences to you,Nora, and your family. Earle Hines

  • November 03, 2025

    Brenda and Tomi

    Your mother's love will forever be a part of who you are. Her legacy of kindness and strength lives on in you. Losing someone so special can feel incredibly overwhelming. I am sending love to you and your family during this trying time. I love you guys!!

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